MUNCHKIN KITTENS AND CATS
FAST FACTS
- Nickname: Sausage Cat
- Height: 7-8 inches
- Weight: 5-9 lbs
- Life Span: 12-14 years
MUNCHKIN INFORMATION
MUNCHKIN BASICS
WHERE ARE MUNCHKIN CATS FROM?
The shorter legs of the Munchkin breed are the product of a naturally occurring genetic abnormality. In 1983, a lady in Louisiana discovered a pregnant short-legged stray cat, and she gave birth to a litter of short-legged kittens that would later serve as the prototype for this new breed.
WERE MUNCHKIN CATS BRED FOR A REASON?
The small legs of the Munchkin were a genetic mutation. Then, his cute appearance was used for breeding him.
HOW MANY TYPES OF MUNCHKIN PEDIGREES ARE THERE?
There are Munchkin breeds with both short and long hair.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS POLYDACTYL?
Any breed of cat can spontaneously develop the polydactylism mutation.
MUNCHKIN LIFESPAN
A Munchkin cat may live between 12 to 14 years.
MUNCHKIN APPEARANCE
HOW BIG DOES A MUNCHKIN GET?
7-8 inches tall
HOW MUCH DOES A MUNCHKIN WEIGH?
5-9 lbs
WHEN DOES A MUNCHKIN STOP GROWING?
18 months
WHAT COLOR COAT DOES A MUNCHKIN HAVE?
Munchkins come in all colours and patterns, including calico, pointed, tortoiseshell, tuxedo, tabby and bicolour.
WHAT EYE COLORS CAN A MUNCHKIN HAVE?
Munchkins have eyes of every hue. However, unlike other cat breeds, their eye colour is unrelated to their coat colour.
MUNCHKIN TEMPERAMENT & PERSONALITY
HOW VOCAL/TALKATIVE ARE MUNCHKIN CATS?
Munchkins are moderately vocal.
HOW AFFECTIONATE/FRIENDLY ARE MUNCHKIN CATS?
The Munchkin is a very affectionate breed.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS GOOD WITH OTHER CATS?
Munchkins are friendly and outgoing with other cats.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS GOOD WITH DOGS?
As long as the dogs are likewise kind toward them, Munchkins are extroverted and sociable among dogs.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS GOOD MOUSERS/HUNTERS?
Munchkins are proficient hunters.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS GOOD INDOOR CATS?
Yes. Regardless of the specific preferences of each cat, it is advised that all cats be kept inside for safety reasons.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS GOOD LAP CATS?
Munchkins love a warm lap to cuddle on.
WHAT DO MUNCHKIN CATS LIKE TO DO?
Children love to run about and chase toys and tend to be mini-hoarders who discover, steal, and hide shiny stuff to play with later.
HOW BIG OF A DIFFERENCE IS THERE BETWEEN A MALE AND A FEMALE MUNCHKIN?
Males tend to be larger than females.
MUNCHKIN DIET, GROOMING & HEALTH
WHAT DO MUNCHKIN CATS EAT?
Consult your veterinarian about the ideal nutrition for your Munchkin. High-protein wet food is generally advised, although dry food can also be eaten as a snack.
DO MUNCHKIN CATS EAT WET FOOD?
Yes
DO MUNCHKIN CATS LIKE MILK?
It is not advisable to feed milk to cats since most of them cannot fully absorb lactose, and milk has little nutritional value.
HOW MUCH DO MUNCHKIN CATS SHED?
The Munchkin is a moderate shedder.
WHAT TYPE OF COAT DO MUNCHKIN CATS HAVE?
Munchkins can be long-haired or short-haired.
DO YOU NEED TO GROOM A MUNCHKIN CAT?
To prevent matting and to tangle from their coats, Munchkins with short hair require occasional brushing, while Munchkins with long hair require brushing twice weekly. Every two weeks or so, all cats should have their claws clipped in addition to grooming. Cats should have their teeth washed twice weekly since they are equally susceptible to periodontal illness.
ARE MUNCHKIN CATS HYPOALLERGENIC?
No
DO MUNCHKINS HAVE A LOT OF HEALTH PROBLEMS?
Although there has been some debate over whether the Munchkin’s tiny legs may lead to spinal problems, the breed is relatively healthy.
WHAT DISEASES ARE MUNCHKINS PRONE TO?
- Lordosis: Munchkin cats are prone to lordosis, a disorder in which the muscles in the spine do not develop to the proper size, causing the spine to sink and bend excessively. Although loretosis can be moderate, when it is severe, kittens do not survive past three.
- Pectus Excavatum: A chest condition known as pectus excavatum causes the Munchkin’s breast bone to turn inward.
PURCHASING VS ADOPTING A MUNCHKIN
HOW MUCH DOES A MUNCHKIN COST?
The cost to adopt a Munchkin cat ranges from $75 to $100. On the other hand, Munchkin cats purchased from a breeder might cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,300.
WHERE CAN I ADOPT A MUNCHKIN
A rescue that specialized in adopting Munchkins would be the simplest method to do it.
MUNCHKIN SHELTERS AND RESCUES
Numerous wonderful Munchkins are frequently available for adoption at nearby animal shelters or rescues.
WHERE CAN I FIND A MUNCHKIN BREEDER?
Before you purchase a kitten from a breeder, we advise you to rescue a Munchkin (or any cat). Across the nation, there are millions of stray cats, many of whom are purebred cats in need of homes. In addition, the adopter and the cat may experience significant life changes due to the adoption.
Getting a kitten from a reputed breeder is safer if you still have doubts and want to buy a Munchkin from a breeder. When working with a breeder, be sure that the breeder you’re buying from genetically tests their animals. You should also double-check the puppy’s health records. Finally, ensure the breeder will return any animals they sell if they cannot keep them in their home for whatever reason. Confirm they are dedicated to finding those animals new homes if necessary.
